It's a weird thing...well, maybe not weird. I'm not sure what to call it. I look at life and consider all that I don't know and find myself wonder, how did I go through life and miss picking up that information? Especially if it was easily accessible? Why didn't I learn how to do this and that, have a certain experience, gain certain understanding and perspective... things that would have been greatly beneficial in adulthood.

Conversely, I consider what I do know and the perspective that I do have and consider myself grateful... for while there is much that I wish I knew "how" to do, there are important things which know "what" to do is sufficient.

Why is that the case?

Because having a what is workable. The how part of things can be navigated and figured out. Lots of time invested and energy exerted, but the process can be worked. The circumstances that stop you in utter confusion and blankness, however, are incredibly frustrating if you find yourself responding as if you are useless. "I don't know WHAT I am to do here."

If there was a goal, or a purpose... a desired outcome or expectation; you at least know two things.

You know where you are.
You know where you to go.

The power of one's accomplishments has many factors, for sure. The why, we may or may not fully understand. The how may or may not be clearly spelled out in instruction form. But where there is a teachable moment of talking or showing what to do accomplishes much.

I'm quickly and more frequently realizing that I would have an easier time knowing what to do as an adult, if there were more "what to do" moments in my youth. In many areas of life. But what if, in matters of faith, I didn't know "what".

Lots would be missing. Much more would never get done.

On this #youthPastorWednesday, pray that God would give clarity to both pastors and the young people that they lead, in the circumstances of life and faith where they are unsure of "what" they are do.  Whatever the matters and issues of life are, pray that God would give them insight and revelation. Pray that the foundation of faith would be well established at an early age. Pray that pastors would not get frustrated by that which they don't know and understand, but live in confidence of Who they know and the "what" for which they were created. May the help to establish that same understanding in the lives of the young people they lead.

For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

There is no effectiveness of results if there is no motivation to begin; and limit results if what was begun is not continued.

There's any number of obstacles and mindsets that hinder and altogether prevent events from happening. And somehow, somewhere, something needs to propel us... advance us... MOTIVATE us to press on and press thru to do that which needs to be accomplished.

Of course, it helps if we know exactly what it is that we wish to accomplish. That goes without saying, but it helps to repeat it. Perhaps even say it aloud as you read it.

It helps to know exactly what it is that we wish to accomplish!

That alone should be motivation even; provided it's a big enough Why.

Dave Ramsey talks about this all the time. If the reason for doing something is motivation enough to move forward, then you don't have a big enough reason. The dream should be huge. A business and leadership author calls them BHAG's.

Big. Hairy. Audacious. Goals.

Too often times, we get focused on size as if it were an obstacle that can't be overcome. However, quite the opposite is true. The end result needs to be a big enough target, that in our pursuit of it, we will never miss hitting it.

With that mindset, the effectiveness of the church and its' ministry, should be an ever-increasing, daily occurrence.

So, pray this #effectiveSunday, that the church and its' leadership would not lose their motivation, nor their sight on the goal and vision of their purpose. Pray that they would neither lose hope, nor burnout from the fatigue of the process. May God strength their spirits and renew their hearts and minds. Pray their focus would be sharp. Pray for clarity where there is confusion; hope for despair and peace in exchange for chaos.

Continual advancement.
For the cause of Jesus Christ
And the glory of God.

- PNC

I commented on Friday's post, for a brief moment, on such buzz words as derisive and tribalism. There's a good form of tribe, that has been established when people talk about business, and the culture within an organization and that's great. You want people on board, moving towards the same goal and mission in that environment.

But turn the tables to something like politics and it becomes a criticism for those who can't see the perspective of those whom they disagree. There's a group that is bent on sending the message that community is damaged and in trouble. That certain people are evil and certain beliefs and ideologies are horrendous. And in the midst of it all, is a desire for the truth from a culture that has devalued the truth. Perhaps because of everyone's loyalty to their own "tribe".

Community is what you make it.
Community is what you focus on.

Are there problems? Sure.
Is there room for improvement? Absolutely.
Can you change the world? At some point.
Can you transform your circle of influence? Yes.

Community starts with the individual. It will be seen as derisive when there is a group determined to send that message. It will not be seen as such for those focused on common ground, common purpose and recognition that everyone around us as well as the one in the mirror is both fallen and capable of greatness.

Community will be great when people pursue the building of great relationships. That requires truth. It requires true compassion. It requires true love. And commitment to seeing people through the eyes of Christ. Anything short of that creates opportunity for other hindrances and attitudes to dominate in ways that are neither good, nor beneficial.

On this #communitySaturday, pray that our perspective and filters would not stand in the way of truth. Furthermore, pray that our faults and failures would not hinder our ability to build relationships and extend friendship, even with those whom we may disagree on any number of issues or beliefs. May God work the miraculous, as we live with eyes open, looking for opportunity whereby God might be glorified.  Pray that the message of Christ would go forth from the messes that have happened in our lives. May we communicate the love of God and the truth of the Gospel in a world that struggles to see past their own experiences and cultural loyalties.

May we be a people sold out
Only to the purpose for which God created us.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

James McDonald shared an honest statement in a recent broadcast... one I thought incredibly appropriate for #deaconThursday. In essence, he made the point that it's problematic when we place a higher value on people and their wisdom than we do the prompting of the Holy Spirit and the power of Christ.

Seems elementary, doesn't it?

And yet it happens often... as in daily.
Those in the pews esteem their pastors insight, charisma and perspective more than going directly to God.
Just as easily, so can pastors rely more on the counsel of their deacon board more than God's Word.

It's dangerous ground, for sure. Consider a time in your life, when you did the same? I don't suggest that as a reminder of the pain that memory recreates, but as a frame of reference that once again, pastors and church leadership are just as human and flawed as the rest of us. Sometimes more so, for out of a great mess comes a great message. And some of my favorite pastors have come from incredible backgrounds that have produced amazing testimonies.

Even that statement alone, if allowed, could be a launch point for temptation even in my own life, to give them greater importance and influence than the very work and word of God. It is with great care and intention that we must guard who we give preferred seating in our hearts and minds, and that ultimately, only the Divine resides on the throne

Pray, this #deaconThursday, that pastors and church leadership alike, would indeed, take great care in keeping God first, especially in the direction and decisions of their ministries and churches, as well as their own lives. Pray for revelation and warning for those who have perhaps gotten the seating arrangement in their lives out of order. May God reestablish His rightful place. Pray the power of the Holy Spirit would neither be lost, nor hindered, nor the eyes of the leadership blindsided or skewed. May their be a clarity of the spiritual vision in this fallen, physical world.

Give us eyes that see,
For we wrestle not against flesh and blood,
But powers and principalities of this dark age.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Kids are back in school or are about to be, and Michael W. Smith's classic song, Live & Learn. Indeed we are always living and learning, Michael. In fact, somewhere buried in the archives, is a post after the song's title that expands on this. But in a slightly different direction than I had originally planned for this #youthPastorWednesday, are the words of James McDonald.

There's a difference between a student of the Word and a servant of the Word.

Tell me that is convicting!

It's the difference between knowing information and knowing what to do with the information.

There's so much more that could be written... and I probably have in the past three plus years. But I'm not sure that I could wish anything more, for pastors, for today's youth and even myself for that matter; to not only know more about God and more of God, but to be doing what He would have us to do with what He has already shared with us through Scripture.

Let that be the challenge and prayer for our lives, on this #youthPastorWednesday. May we be, not only better students of the Bible, but better servants of it. Pray that our youth and the pastors and parents who lead them, would instill and build a foundation of faith that trusts in God alone and seeks His face for their purpose and calling in life. May their identity forever be found in Jesus Christ. Pray for an ever-increasing desire, for the Holy Spirit to be active and at work; bringing fresh revelation and insight, now only through the power of prayer, but by the reading and study of God's Word.

Study, to show thyself approved
Serve, in order to be found faithful.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Nobody likes to be rushed. Even when we have to rush ourselves, it is frustrating. And once in a hurry, anything or anyone who slows you down or stands in the way just seems to create even more frustration.  

The biggest of projects, or the minor-est of inconveniences, life is frustrating enough. We really don't need more of it, whether from people, pressure or circumstance. Yet we all experience it. We've all been on the receiving end of it. We've all created it for someone else. And why.

Is some of it legit? Probably.
Is mot of it necessary? Probably not.

God tells us to be anxious for nothing, and yet at a certain level, stress does create a certain level of anxiety in our lives. Even if we are in a position to afford the cost, handle the responsibility or navigate the complex problem with confidence, the "back of the mind" element still exists, itself ready to release havoc in our lives.

I really wish there was an easy solution, for whatever it is that stands before us. But there isn't. Taking care of the matter at hand while it is before you is an intentional act, even when it it "easy". Doing what you can do when you are able to do so goes a long ways. Asking for help and advice when you need it from those who are truth-tellers who have your best interests in mind, accomplishes much. And of course, reliance upon God through prayer.

A great reminder, even for pastors.

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday that the stress and struggle of ministry and the current battles they face would not overtake or overwhelm them. Pray a sense of victory and progress, as they commit to the Lord, their daily activities and schedules. May they be intentional and focused in all that they say and do; not out of hurry or frenzy, but from a place of confidence and peace. Pray anxiety and worry would be far removed from their lives, as they walk in faith and live in the confidence of their calling having fully placed their trust in God, repeatedly. Daily.

For He has not given us a spirit of fear,
But of confidence, and a sound mind.
For His glory alone.

- PNC

Of all the songs to strike me on this #seniorPastorMonday, it's the lyrics from U2's New Year's Day.

Four simple words. Count them. Four. 4. quattro.

"I will begin again."

We keep hitting these stages and phases in life, where in the frustration of realizing that we aren't as far along as we should, planned or hoped that we would be; we also don't want to go back to the very beginning. Often times we don't "have" to do so. But at other times, we might not have a choice in the matter either.

Resolve, however, is the first step.

I can't fathom what some pastors have gone through in the tenure of their ministries. Mistakes of the own undoing, ousting(s) that were beyond their control and situations that simply couldn't be overtaken nor the people affected won over. It almost overwhelming to consider.

I think of my own life, the things I've had to revisit and restart... even all the way back to the beginning. And the resolve has been both lax and lacking altogether at various times. But God is a God of redemption. And we see even where he, began again. Destroyed the people of the Earth, save Noah and his family and began again. He made Israel wait to enter Canaan until an entire generation had passed away. 

There is great power, and possibility in beginning again.

It's an exciting process, but an anxious prospect.
But this is what God does. Creation and re-creation is His specialty.

And despite how we've arrived back at the starting line, I think God smiles as He prepares people to send forth, a second, third and even a fourth time... to begin again.

Pray this #seniorPastorMonday for those pastors who find themselves in places where they don't want to start over. Whatever the nature of loss they have endured, pray that God would strengthen their entire being and refresh their spirits to a new work. Pray they would find the resolve to not allow detours and derailment to keep them from the work God has ordained for them to accomplish; whether it be a continuation of work or going in a different direction. May depression and discouragement be far from them; if when the feelings of unworthiness and worthlessness are great. Pray that anxiety and fear would not dissuade or hinder one's ability or wherewithal; but that they would be quickened, to begin. Again.

For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

The cool thing about community... it can happen anywhere. It should happen anywhere. And it is usually best, when it does happen anywhere. It is not only in the formal environment of city, town and village. It is found within the gathering of neighbors on your block. It is found in the coming together of people to join in life groups as an extension of the church. Friends join to support a common cause or spend time hanging out over a shared interest or hobby.

Community is built when family gathers.
Community is built when a marriage receives another investment through time, conversation and love.
Community is built thru one person, when found in a time of prayer and the pages of the Word.

Why is community important?

Because God said, it is not good for man to be alone.

We all take this for granted perhaps, because it was followed by the creation of Eve. And we always associate it with companionship and marriage. And rightly so. But God walked with Adam in the cool of the day. Before there was relationships and community among humanity, there was divine community.

Divine community among the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Divine community established between God and Adam.
Divine community redeemed between God and Adam through Christ.

On this #communitySaturday, would you pray that we not take any of it for granted? God help us not to neglect our quiet time in your presence, through the power of prayer and the revelation of your Word. Pray God would help us to continually invest in people, through time, conversation and love... whether in the sanctity of marriage, the protection of family or the joy of friends. May we enter angels through the company of strangers.

For we were not meant to live life alone.
But through divine relationship with God
And eternal relationship with our fellow man.
For the glory of God

- PNC

I'm still reeling over this scandal with the Catholic priests.

I know we've prayed many times over, that deacons and other non-pastoral leadership people would be those who would give well-grounded Biblical advice and insight. We've also prayed for discernment as those people were chosen and placed. And this situation places a high-priority on the incredible importance of both of those factors becoming reality.

Good people who give good advice who continually and consistently make good decisions themselves. Repeat.

I know, we closed yesterday's prayer with idea that none of us are in a place to say, thank God I'm not...

None of us know what the person next to us has gone through and they don't know the same about you or I. Indeed, the indictment and judgement you pass on your neighbor very well could be your own. Of course, the process of giving careful consideration to who we allow in our "inner circle" is complicated by the fact that not only do none of us probably deserve to be in the positions we are; we could just as easily fall from grace as the next person... and as these priests have done.

I'm having difficulty writing this... the issue is that complex. Clearly, the examples that serve as evidence of this are countless. High-profile breaking news on national and international stages. Local news that rivets a community. And who knows how much more that are caught and dealt with in seeming obscurity.

This is a big deal because there's 1000 victims and 300 perpetrators. But it's just as disastrous for one life, one family, and the demise of one church that nobody outside of a small village may ever know.

Pray this #deaconThursday for the auxiliary leadership of the church. Pray that they would not only be people of character, but Godly, Biblical character, full of faith and the Holy Spirit. Pray that they would take great care in guarding their faith, hearts and minds, as well as their marriages and relationships. May God give them wisdom and discernment beyond their years; that they would be people of the Word and a voice for truth.

God give them clarity
Spiritual vision
In a dark reality.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Another late in the day post, I know... I struggled, as I didn't feel I had any direction for this post today either. But, late in the day it comes, and so late, in the day we're here! Prompted, no less, by an online conversation that got me thinking about how we look back at certain decisions made by others and wonder... how did that happen?

There's any number of current events and social issues for which this question applies, whether in today's news or the breaking news of your youth; none of which was the topic this evening. Nevertheless, it didn't take long in looking at the matter, to wonder why certain considerations weren't given due diligence or specific details don't seem to have been thought thru as to long-term effects and future difficulties.

Of course, this is a problem that every organization deals with, from senior management (especially in times of transition) to staff and team members and especially to mid-level management. The level where there is decision-making ability that the higher ups might not know the specifics of, but everyone affected will have their moment of wonder. Likewise, that mid level of management will also have some insight and understanding of what is going on in the upper echelon of decision makers, whereby they'll ask the same questions with similar states of intrigue.

What were they thinking when....

We've all been there. I ask myself what I was thinking from way back when, more often than I care to admit! But for all of that, all you can do is deal with today and where you are, with what you have and with those who are present now to be of assistance and influence.

Pray this #associatePastorTuesday, that God would indeed, give wisdom and direction for those who find themselves in difficult circumstances, unable perhaps to figure out how the present challenge even came into existence. Pray that God would give them favor and creativity as to how to overcome the matter. May God help them keep a proper perspective of His sovereign hand and keep a complaining spirit at bay. Pray for a focus on Godly, effective and beneficial solutions where and whenever possible. Pray too, that God would surround them with people who will speak truth and life into these circumstances; giving wisdom, direction and support. May frustration and anger not get the best of them, but that they would find ways in which God would be glorified with outcomes that only He could bring into fruition.

For all our lapses in better judgement
God works it all for His glory.
And thankfully, not for our demise.

- PNC

It's crazy to think that the school year is practically around the corner! Would someone like to tell me where summer went already? I'm assuming your church has probably already done their Vacation Bible School for the kids. Our new church that we started attending earlier this year, is holding theirs this week... in fact, it's an evening VBS all week, which makes it kinda cool for more parents to be involved without wreaking havoc on work schedule's and the like.

It has me reflecting on the importance and indeed the priority, of young people learning not only about the ways of God at a tender age, but the character and nature of God as well. That's an important distinction that one of my pastor's was careful to point out regarding Moses' life and the people of Israel. The nation knew His works, Moses knew Him.

I'll be the first to admit, my imperfection. Should anyone stand before to account for this truth about my life, it's probably my wife! I don't have it all together, as I've mentioned many times, on this site for the last three years. I try not to think too often about bad decisions, improper thoughts and statements of regret. Am I talking about 20 years ago or 20 hours ago?

Yes. Sadly.

Conversely, though, I don't want to the be the guy in the parable who prayed in gratitude that he wasn't as bad as the guy next to him. I look at myself, knowing full well, that while it would be easy to compare to others, I can only compare myself today to yesterday. And as I consider yesterday, those decisions, thoughts and words and deeds could have been astronomically worse than what they were. Were they horrible by the standards of others? Probably to some. But they were particularly horrible for me, because I knew better. Not because of my cranium knowledge, but because of my heart condition.

I look back upon my stupidity with a sense of gratitude for the remnant of faith that remained from my youth that somehow prevented me from outcomes worse than the consequences that I actually endured. Emotionally, relationally, spiritually, financially. Was it disaster? Yes. But nothing that God couldn't redeem.

And that's what I want for my kids and your kids. As parents and pastors, we don't and won't always agree with what they do. Ever. Well into adulthood, your kids will have you scratching your head and your parents will do the same to you.

I don't just want a remnant of faith that will keep and guard my kids. I want a foundation and building of faith within their lives and spirits that will not only withstand whatever the world throws against them as well as whatever self-implosion of their life that may occur; that even their foolishness would not be their demise nor destruction.

On this #youthPastorWednesday, pray for this generation of young people, and the parents and pastors who raise them. Pray for an unshakable foundation of faith to be established within their hearts, minds and souls. May the Word of truth and the Holy Spirit guide their steps, illuminate their paths and guard all that is within them. Pray God would help us to lead and train them well, despite all our faults, misgivings and imperfections.

For we are only made whole
Through the blood of Jesus Christ.
May we live our lives, un-wasted.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Today is primary election day in some states. Oh the joys of politics and a Constitutional Republic.

On this #associatePastorTuesday, I can't help by reminded that life is real and so are the people in it. As such, it's impossible to please everyone. On further thought, I'm not sure who struggles with this more; the politician or the pastor? For as much as people criticize those who hold both of these positions, you would think that there would be a rush for the critics to step underneath the lights of that criticism. But alas, they do not... and neither do I, for that matter.

Furthermore, it doesn't help that it is all too easy to get caught up in the personalities of the people rather than the power of the policies. People have become more concerned about preserving their career rather than the Constitution and likewise, pastors to preserve the pulpit, rather than preach the power of the Cross.

A man in our church ran for office. And while he is incredibly bummed regarding the outcome, those who are attempting to encourage him aren't doing so well. Or they are and he isn't having it.

This is gonna be a short post and it is what it; but I'll share here what I posted elsewhere in that conversation...

"Don't believe the perceived responses of people whom you have projected your expectations."

In other words, it's easy to think people feel or think about things or ourselves in a particular way, often based on little to nil evidence, then we believe what we have "projected" as if they actually had mounting and substance evidence to justify it all.

This does not help; both in terms of self-confidence, nor in the confidence of those we serve or attempt to serve.
What does help... remain faithful, to the work and purpose for which you've been called.

For the pastor. For the politician. For the ones in the pew.

On this #associatePastorTuesday, pray for pastors that are struggling with critics and circumstance in which relationships and perception seems to be causing stress and difficulty. May God give them wisdom in navigating such trouble times. Pray for a peace about their spirit and a quiet confidence in the work of God within their lives. Pray God would give them wisdom in the days to come; to find health and balance in their relationships and live true to the ministry in which God has placed them to serve and serve faithfully.

For the glory of God.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

It's hard to be effective at the things for which you put forth little to no effort. In fact, nearly as impossible as you get can, the lower the effort quotient. Somewhere in the process, effort must be exerted.

Words communicated, actions taken, time invested, resources utilized, funds spent... whatever the work is that you are to be about doing, eventually requires you taking intentional steps to get things done.

But don't listen to me... I've had one of the more unproductive weekends I recall having in a while. Call it a funk. Call it whatever you want. Call it an excuse; because at the end of it, that's probably about I have to offer.

Life is a journey, full of lessons. The frustrating ones are not the ones that are most difficult to learn; the are the one's that we have learned, but struggle to implement and institute into our lives, daily where applicable. And I was reminded once again, today, the simple fact of all of our lives. Eternity weighs in the balance. Not only for our own lives, but the lives our family, friends, neighbors and co-workers. You can almost visualize the [your] that exists when Christ told the disciples to go into the world.

So, while this is a later #effectiveSunday post, pray that today would be effective in that it's the day we start afresh as we enter the first full week of August, to live and be the people of God that we have been called to be according to His perfect and sovereign plan. May we glorify Him both in word and in deed, wherever we go and with whomever we come in contact with as we go about our daily lives. Pray for an awareness about our hearts and minds; that we may speak truth and life with intentionality and compassion to those in need... even for those who don't know that they have a spiritual need.

God, help to live
Life as you have set us apart from the world,
But effective in the world for the cause of Christ.

- PNC

There's a power in both the phrase and the concept of living "between the ditches" that has seemingly captured my attention when I wasn't paying attention. It's quite the visual, when you consider the many implications that exist, especially as we consider the power and importance of living as a community.

We are all on a journey. Often passing through life in different directions, in more ways than one.

Accidents. Mistakes. Close-calls. Hazards. Warning signs about obstacles and those instances in which we are blind-sided. There's any number of reasons which cause us to land in the ditches of life. But the great aspect of community, is that our relationships should be as such to recognize when someone has found themselves in that place. And just as important, is that we should recognize the things that can cause us to land there as well.

We get caught off-guard by the very things that we know we should be especially careful to be aware of; meanwhile we don't always help those that are about to find themselves in states of trouble that are all-too preventable.

What's worse, we don't always take advantage of allowing relationships to exist to the degree that such conversations and interventions can occur... neither do we exercise wisdom in following their advice or taking their insight and perspective into consideration. Which, if that is part of the point of having such a person in our lives, then we've done ourselves an injustice to both ourselves and those around us.

"I value your friendship, but not enough to allow you to speak into my life, nor respect you when you do speak."

Such a mindset is... well, dangerous if it is intentional. And tragic, when it actually plays out among us. And I say us, because I've held it at previous times in my life. It's a guaranteed way to end up in the ditch and in fact, people might just wait and watch for the moment to happen. This is where the pain of life is usually for our benefit.

So, pray this #communitySaturday that God would help us to keep life on the road. Pray for strength and vision to be aware of the dangers of life, and through the power of the Holy Spirit, to navigate our way around. Furthermore, pray for the quality of our relationships; that they would exist at such a level that the insight, wisdom and perspective that exists would be utilized for a better life; to build and encourage each other in the faith as well as bring others to faith. May we be a people that impacts community through our approach to those around us because of the value that we place upon relationship. Pray that we would create and build relationships to that would glorify and honor God and draw others ever closer to Him because of what the world sees in our interactions with each other.

For freedom is found in Christ
And enjoyed on the roads of life
Especially when we avoid the ditches.

- PNC

It's difficult to remember that which you haven't committed to memory.

This simply, profound truth is a courtesy summation of a point in John McArthur's sermon that I heard early this morning, in which He was talking about the promises that Christ gave before His ascension regarding the work and help of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

It's an amazing consideration... the lengths to which God went to restore relationship with His creation. As if Christ' death wasn't enough, He sent help; knowing full well we would need it. However, despite our desperate need for the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, that doesn't negate our best efforts to attempt to get by and live without Him.

We attempt to get by on our own goodness, efforts, works and words. We focus on the quality of our relationships with others, while neglecting one with God. We have everything else in our hand and in front of our face than that which is necessary for spiritual growth, maturity and longevity.

How do I know this? I have a mirror... that I can envision without actually getting up and walking into the room where the physical mirror exists. Why do I know more quotes from my favorite show or song, rather than my favorite book and more importantly, God's book? Because I'm human.

And because you can't remember what's not already in your memory banks. So, I ask, the same question I'm asking myself.
What am I committing to memory?
What am I leading my kids to learn and remember?
In the battles and struggles that pastors face, what are they remembering and standing upon?
As they lead their own homes and families? As they help me lead mine? As they help lead my friends and families?

So, pray this #youthPastorWednesday, that God would draw all of us, but especially the pastors of this up and coming generation, that they would be people of the Word to an ever greater degree than ever. May they stand on the promises of God more than ever before; because they know and even more aware than they have ever been. Pray the battles and stresses of life would not cause them to disengage; but draw in closer, to the presence of God and the truths of His Word. Indeed, pray that the Holy Spirit would be their comfort and their guide. May they be led not only into all truth, but walk in the fullness of the promises of God.

Only by His grace.
And all for His glory.
To know Him
And by known by Him.
In all truth; for all time.

- PNC

Continual moments of trust.

That's almost all we can do. Sometimes, it is, literally, all that we can do.

For the rest of life, it is the essence, the very beginning of everything that follows

We don't have all the answers. And in the words of Chief of Staff, Leo McGarry, from The West Wing...

"We don't always know; how it ends."

You would think that not knowing would make it easier to trust God. But it doesn't. Not always. Not always at first. Not always as much as it should. We worry. We fret. We overthink, over-analyze and over-worry.

Conversely, we struggle more often than not, with an overwhelming sense of peace. An over-abundance of joy. And periods of prayer that extend into over-time. Yet the times of faithfulness and continued trust are worth it. Even when it seems as though you are just maintaining. That, in and of itself, is quite an accomplishment sometimes.

But it's one that God can honor. Because it equates to perseverance. We're not done yet. We're not giving out. We're gonna continue to plan and pray and figure things out and trust God through all of it that He will help us find our way. Then God does His part and grants a surprise blessing. It doesn't mean there aren't still battles and long days ahead; just that the continued moments of trust are not going unnoticed by His watchful eye.

Pray this #associatePastorTuesday for those pastors that are having difficulty in the midst of trials and struggles to maintain a continual sense of trust. Pray they would neither lose hope, nor give up the fight. Pray that God would strengthen their hearts and renew their minds, from the battles that have worn them done. May they continue to serve faithfully and keep the perspective that even maintaining hope is important in getting through that which wages against them. Pray that worry, anxiety and overthinking and analysis would not get the best of them, but that even in the late hours, they would find rest and peace in the midst of the troubling unknown.

For one can never go wrong,
To continual place their trust in God alone.
To Him who never fails, neither sleeps nor slumbers;
Neither is He slack concerning us.
His plan is good and His timing perfect; for His glory.

- PNC

Does anybody truly love what they do? Every single aspect of their job? What about their vocation? The calling that is upon their life? "Every single aspect" might be a little bit of a stretch, for surely everyone has that "one" task or responsibility on their list that they would rather not deal with if at all possible.

And even operating in divine calling that God has placed upon an individual, requires a stepping out into faith and obedience that surely contains an element that, if it weren't for the calling, they would have no partaking in it.

My point is, that there will always be something in the process and journey of our day and responsibility that we will be less than thrilled to be doing. Yet there should be an overall purpose and point in the midst of it, that says "this is why I love what I do."

Yet, even within ministry, this element and perspective gets lost and discarded and as a result, burnout takes its' place.

There is no longer a joy and a passion; a thrill in the work and the calling. If the appeal is gone; then so is the motivation to continue. Such is the time that we usually begin to check out and lose hope, which is dangerous territory for church leadership and those in the pastorate.

So, pray this #seniorPastorMonday, that pastors would not lose the love, joy and thrill of the calling that has been placed upon them. Pray that God would rekindle the spark within them and fan the flame. May burnout be removed and a sense of purpose and meaning restored; that their work is of the utmost of importance for eternity; even in the elements and responsibilities that are undesirable, but necessary. Pray that God would strengthen and fill them anew and afresh; that their efforts would not be done in vain nor begrudgingly.

Working as unto the Lord
May His light and grace shine upon them
For His glory
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Yes, it's a post-service post on this #effectiveSunday but it's okay. You'll be okay, I promise.

I not exactly sure what to call a moment of realization, that really doesn't reach the level of epiphany or revelation. An "a-ha" moment doesn't even quite provide accurate description. It was simply one of those, refreshing, "wow, that's really cool"  how that works, except it was about a truth you've always known to be true. Does that make sense? Yes, PNC... it will after you tell us what you're talking about!

So, after communion this morning, the band was doing the closing song and singing about the finished work of Christ; that everything we needed and that He provided for us, was done at the cross. We often talk about our journey of faith being a process and that God is at work and yes, that's true for our understanding; plus it probably helps us manage and make sense out of life and circumstance for which the rest of the world has no answer as to why we are enduring such matters.

But God builds in "complete states". For all of creation, He spoke and it came into being. There were no eggs that hatched and grew into what we know today. He created in states of maturity. Adam and Even were not sweethearts from neighboring cribs. He created man and He then, created woman. The effectiveness of God's Work lies in the fact that God neither does anything half-baked nor half-planned.

His Word does not return void because there is nothing lacking from it. Neither is His plan ineffective because He has overlooked a detail or forgotten a piece of the universal puzzle. It all works by His sovereign Hand and precise timing because of the fullness of His glory and grace.

Thus, it begs the question... what in our lives and ministries are inefficient and ineffective because they are incomplete? Yes, I know there is always a new experience and better information that create to better level of proficiency regarding whatever it is that we are working on. Conversely, however, what do we make out to be more of a process than it should be because we fail to step in faith and obedience to what God has called us to do; thinking that we are missing elements and experiences that we are more concerned about having, even though God has already made provision for them?

Moses comes to mind. Call them excuses if you will, but it illustrates perfect this point. God had a plan, yet all Moses could see where the things in His life that he thought he was lacking to step out in obedience to that plan. God wasn't concerned about any of it, but Moses hesitated. God's work and plan was complete; Moses effectiveness perhaps hindered by his lack of understanding that such was the case.

On this #effectiveSunday, let that not be the case in our own lives. Pray that we would understand anew and afresh, that not only is God at work, but that His work and plan are complete. Pray that today would be a new step in faith and obedience as we understand what God would have us to do, say and go within our sphere of influence. May we not make excuses as Moses did, but trust that God has provided the process and means for us to be able to do what He has called us to do. For if it is by His grace that we are saved, then why should we consider it as though He is filling in the gaps of our short-comings. Our who lives are one short-coming; thus whatever God would accomplish in us is only do so because of His completeness.

For the glory of God
And the cause of Cross & Gospel of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

You would think that as you progress through this life and the journey of faith, that things would get easier. But they don't. And we shouldn't be surprised. Consider the work of God in your life. Does not Scripture refer to it as the Refiner's fire?

The cleansing, transformation work of the Holy Spirit is like being under the spotlight, in the hot seat, under fire.

We often consider being under fire, as being under attack. Which is very much true. It is a two-fold perspective.

God is making us stronger in the faith, as we journey through life and experience and everything else. The challenge, the struggle, the battle, the frustration... mixed in with the occasional joy, laughter and sorrow; God is using all of it for His glory. There is no doubt in my mind.

Alternatively, though, is there not a competition for strength? Something gets built until the storm comes and destroys it. So rebuilding occurs. Stronger. And a stronger storm comes. And a third rebuild. And an even stronger, third storm hits.

God is building a stronger force of faith within us...
The enemy, in his determination, mounts a stronger attempt of attack against us.

We are not watching the war, nor are we in the war as a participant. We are the very object of the war. There is no willingly turning to the enemy's side. There is only the look at God that does not lose trust in Him or the look that says we are done with His rebuilding us.

This is decision of burnout. Is it the spiritual warfare that gets to us as believers? Absolutely. But for all the struggles along the way within ministry and the work that God desires to accomplish that is met with a people and cultural that is simultaneously interested in the spiritual realm, but not desirous of a relationship with God, the process of storm and rebuild seems at times a futile, albeit eternal exercise.

Do we know better? Yes
But that hasn't stopped some from looking at God and simply wanting it to be over.

On this #missionsFriday, while this could be for any of us, pray especially for missionaries that very well may be at such a brink in their faith. Pray for those on the field, both at home and abroad, whose future seems bleak and they are weary and worn from the onslaught of storms and battles against them from cultural and political attack. May God strengthen them and raise them up, anew and afresh. Pray that they would neither lose hope, nor be dismayed. Pray that would not worry about the outcome nor the process, but would continue to place their trust in God alone, even if it feels futile... even if it feels as though they don't have it within them to do so one more time. May God give them incredible grace and amazing unfound favor.

That His will would be accomplished.
Their lives of faith and corresponding work, not done in vain.
But for the glory of God alone.

- PNC

Thomas Edison, in his seemingly unquenchable ability to persevere, gave us an incredibly profound perspective.

"I didn't fail. I found 10,000 ways that didn't work."

There's now 3 complete years worth of daily prayers in the archives, so my apologies that I don't recall exactly how long ago I wrote a post regarding best practices, but for whatever reason, I was considering how that terminology and principle came into being.

Obviously, there is wisdom and success in duplicating the activities and procedures that have work elsewhere and by and large, it works. Not always, as markets are different, along with companies and organizations and the culture they are built on.

Having said that, it's kind of amazing how often people and organizations repeatedly attempt to try and implement processes and strategies that others before them have done. It's a continual engagement, as if every generation has a conversation that involves, "I tried that before and it doesn't work. This way is better."

Best practices is doing the better way in the most effective and efficient way possible. It's been perfected, analyzed and refined some more. But that doesn't mean that someone won't come along with a more epic (or tragic) way of going about a situation or solving a problem and create a bigger mess than what was before them when they started.

He who wants to become wise, listens and learns.
He wants to learn, seeks those who know.
Those who know, most likely know from having done.
And doing, as Edison will attest, is quite an effective teacher.

On this #deaconThursday, pray that churches would not duplicate the problems and processes of previous churches and organizations in their effort to accomplish goals and achieve ministry success. Pray for camaraderie among church leaders, pastors and staff; that while they have their hands full with their own operations and ministries, that they would find time to invest in the leadership of other churches and ministries as well. As companies have in interest in what happens within their industry, so to does the church have a vested interest in what happens within Christendom-at-large. May God help leadership to be engaged and make a greater impact by teaching and training others, that 10,000 more ways that don't work would be discovered, but what does work and work well would be replicated.

For the benefit of the advance of the kingdom of God
Wise stewards of our resources, knowledge and time
For His glory.

- PNC